Pink Cloud & PAWS

Pink Cloud Syndrome is a term commonly used in the recovery community to describe someone who is newly sober—often just past the withdrawal phase—and experiencing an intense wave of joy and optimism. This person may feel so confident and enthusiastic about their recovery that it becomes somewhat unrealistic. Those with more recovery experience understand that this "honeymoon phase" is temporary and will eventually come to an end.

Dangers of Pink Cloud. While the signs of Pink Cloud Syndrome may seem positive, they can actually indicate that someone is becoming overly confident in their ability to stay sober. This inflated sense of certainty can lead to risky decisions that increase the chances of relapse.

Benefits of Pink Cloud. The euphoria experienced during the Pink Cloud phase is often a reaction to the relief of escaping the constant mental turmoil of addiction and the renewed sense of hope that comes with early sobriety. If the individual can maintain a realistic perspective on the recovery process, this phase can actually help reinforce their commitment to staying sober.

What is PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome)?

How to Identify PAWS

How to combat PAWS